Quitting a Bank Job for CGL: A Closer Look at the Pros and Cons

There are many factors to consider when choosing to leave a high-profile bank job and stepping into a role with lower pay in the government sector. I, too, made this transition from a PO (Probationary Officer) position in Andhra Bank to an Auditor in the CGL (Central Government Legal Services) with significantly reduced pay. This post delves into the pros and cons of such a decision, based on my personal experience.

1. The Impact of Designation and Hierarchical Culture

One of the most significant changes in my transition was the shift from a bank's Officer role to an Auditor (CAG) position within the CGL. This shift involved a major alteration in the working culture. In banks, the designation is based on 90% talent and 10% seniority, whereas in CGL, it is entirely based on seniority. This means that the hierarchy and decision-making processes differ greatly.

Additionally, the risk associated with both roles is nearly negligible. Unlike bank positions, which often come with daily targets and high public interaction, CGL jobs have no such demands. Bank POs typically work from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM, with little to no breaks, while CGL positions start later and end earlier with unlimited unofficial breaks.

2. The Pay and Benefits

One of the main attractions of the CGL job is the pay and benefits. An entry-level clerical job in CGL, starting at a grade pay of 2800, can be equivalent to a PO position in the public sector. Moreover, the allowances provided in a CGL role are among the best within the government sector, making the job significantly more attractive.

While the income from banks can continue to rise with experience and promotions, the low starting salary and increasing work hours, coupled with infrequent pay revisions, can sometimes make a CGL job more financially viable.

3. Personal and Professional Impacts

Another crucial factor to consider is the impact on personal life. Quitting a bank job like a PO and stepping into a lower-paying but more professional position risks losing the home or nearby home posting preference that many bank POs enjoy. If shifted to a remote location, this change can be disruptive to both personal and professional life.

For instance, in my case, I was posted in the North East state after working for a year and half as a PO in Andhra Bank. This change in posting significantly disrupted my personal life, leading to additional stress and uncertainties.

4. The Future Outlook

Considering the current trends, it seems that CGL jobs are becoming a better alternative to bank jobs. There is less pressure to work long hours every day and fewer day-to-day targets. The hierarchy and culture are also more manageable in the CGL sector.

Therefore, while the initial decision to trade a high-profile bank job for a CGL role may seem challenging, it can be a wise choice if one values work-life balance, a more stable work culture, and good pay and benefits.

Conclusion

Deciding to quit a bank PO and move to a lower-paying CGL position is a decision that requires careful consideration. While it offers a more stable and less pressure-filled work environment, along with better pay and benefits, it also comes with some significant adjustments, such as a change in posting and a shift in cultural practices. The decision ultimately depends on individual priorities and long-term goals.